Sinus problems may be the result of allergies such as hay fever, cold and flu or pollution in the air. No matter the cause, the result is the same, sinus pressure, clogged breathing passageways, dripping nose, sneezing, coughing, wheezing and generally poor breathing. Remedies for sinus problems vary depending on what caused the condition. Common remedies for sinus problems include drugs, lifestyle changes and an array of home remedy treatments.
Drugs
If your sinus problems are caused by cold or flu, your health care provider will probably recommend an over-the-counter decongestant. He may advise a saline nasal spray to rinse your nasal passages and reduce blockage. If your cold or flu is intense, he may prescribe stronger drugs known as nasal corticosteroids, which are prescription nasal sprays that relieve inflammation. If your nose and nasal passageways hurt, the doctor usually recommends aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve the pain and soreness.
Lifestyle Changes
Sinus problems occur for many reasons, but sometimes they are a direct result of your environment. Dirty, dusty cities release allergens into the air that find a way up your nose. Consider moving out of the city if possible. If that isn’t possible, then change the environment inside your home by installing an air conditioner and air cleaner to cleanse the air and make breathing easier. Wear a mask if necessary when you must go to areas heavy with smoke, dirt and other allergens.
Home Remedy Treatments
Visit your local health food store or nutrition center and purchase grapefruit seed extract or potassium supplements. Both of these products help to break up mucus and relieve inflammation. Try taking a spoonful of horseradish straight up. The heat from the horseradish radiates up the nose to relieve congestion. Drink basil tea because the basil plant contains thymol and camphor, both of which aid in relieving congestion.
Steam
Although most people will not install a sauna in their home, you can use your shower as a sauna. Before getting in, let the water run in the shower for a few minutes at the hottest setting to create steam. Adjust the water temperature before entering the shower. Breathe in the steam to relieve your sinus problems. The steam helps break up the mucus blockage in your nose so you can breathe better.
Drinks Dos and Don’ts
Drink at least eight glasses of water or juice a day if possible. Water dilutes the mucus buildup in your nose so it will begin to drain. Avoid drinks that dehydrate the body such as drinks with caffeine or alcohol. These products can cause additional swelling in the lining of the sinuses, causing more pressure and additional pain.